Insurance Sector Moves Quickly to Process Gen Z Damage Claims, Over 1800 Surveyors Deployed Nationwide

Kathmandu – The Gen Z protest, which began on Monday, Bhadra 23, has resulted in initial insurance claims totaling approximately NPR 21 billion, covering damages reported up to Bhadra 31. The widespread unrest saw police stations and other government structures across the country set ablaze, complicating the preparation of official police reports necessary for insurance claims.

The Nepal Insurance Authority (NIA), the regulatory body overseeing the sector, has directed insurance companies to promptly collect detailed damage reports and proceed with claim settlements. Following this guidance, non-life insurance companies have deployed dedicated teams to expedite the claims process, including field surveyors who are actively preparing damage reports. For ease of communication, insurance companies have also shared contact details of their limited staff involved in the process.

Among insurers, The Oriental Insurance has received the highest number of claims, notably including coverage for the Hilton Hotel, which was destroyed by fire during the unrest.

Mohan Purush Dhakal, President of the Insurance Surveyors Association, Nepal, stated that 2,225 claims have been recorded so far, with over 1,800 surveyors deployed nationwide. “Although some of our initial requests for formal facilitation to the Nepal Insurance Authority remain pending, verbal support has significantly aided the process. Surveyors in Nepal are highly capable, and the environment is conducive for prompt claim settlements,” Dhakal said.

Birendra Baidwar Chhetri, President of the Nepal Insurance Association and CEO of Siddhartha Premier Insurance, emphasized that insurance companies are prepared to settle claims efficiently. “Insurers are fully capable of paying claims in a simple and timely manner, without causing further difficulties to property owners and policyholders affected by the losses,” he said.

While billions of rupees worth of private property have been insured, government structures—including Singha Durbar—were not covered. As a result, the government has launched a financial collection campaign to support reconstruction efforts for damaged public infrastructure.